subject: Academic Disciplines: Religion And Rationality Course.. [print this page] Context of contemporary religious studies
The present day level of scientific knowledge has a significant impact on development of contemporary religious theories. At present, religious theoreticians need to consider the context of materialistic studies, trying to predict the materialists counterarguments. This fact became the precondition for appearance of such academic discipline as Religion and Rationality. As opposed to medieval theories, this course tries to rationalize the existence of the spiritual dimension of life, connecting it to the realities of materialistic world instead of contrasting the two sides of life.
Students might be confused with the wide range of theories and studies related to the subject. It is advisable to pay attention to the course books recommended by the instructor for the purpose of avoiding possible misunderstanding and misinterpretation. The Religion and Rationality course requires considering the context of the current debates for creating the students awareness of the complexity of the problem. On the other hand, due to the diversity of theories and hypotheses, students may have problems with systematizing the course materials. Educators try to guide learners, providing them with theoretical materials and pointing at particular links and works of theoreticians.
Challenges and opportunities of the course
1.Well-developed skills of analytical thinking and critical analysis are required for taking the Religion and Rationality course. Creating the awareness of the most popular religious hypotheses, students need to review the literature for deepening their knowledge.
2.Religious studies have impact on development of other philosophical sciences. Being in the know of the latest trends would be helpful for a more comprehensive understanding of other subjects.
3.Thinking over the link between the body and mind, existence of non-material soul and its transcendental character, students are enabled to develop their spirituality.
